Title: U.S. Embassy in Cuba to Close Suddenly: Cuban Visa Issuance Threatened
In a surprising development, the U.S. Embassy in Havana, Cuba, has announced its sudden closure, leaving Cuban citizens and U.S. residents uncertain about the future of visa issuance between the two countries. The embassy’s move, effective September 29, comes amidst growing diplomatic tensions.
The closure will suspend all visa processing and routine consular services, potentially affecting thousands of Cubans eager to visit or migrate to the U.S. The embassy’s website urged U.S. citizens in Cuba to depart the country while commercial flights are still available. It’s unclear how the closure will impact previously scheduled visa appointments.
This decision follows a series of diplomatic measures between the U.S. and Cuba. In April, the U.S. expelled 18 Cuban diplomats, accusing them of working as spies in the U.S., and the Cuban government responded by expelling 15 U.S. diplomats.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the U.S. Department of State have been resuming visa and consular services in the U.S. and other countries after cutbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, several field offices, including the one in Fresno, California, will close on September 30. Those with upcoming appointments should expect rescheduling.
In Mexico, the U.S. Embassy has suspended all immigrant and non-immigrant visa appointments until October 12 due to a reduction in staff. All appointments will be rescheduled automatically. The embassy assured affected individuals that no additional fee would be charged for the rescheduled appointment.
Elsewhere, the U.S. Consulate in Tijuana, Mexico, will close its doors on October 1, suspending all routine visa and consular services. However, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City and its consulates in other Mexican cities will continue to operate normally.
The diplomatic community and affected individuals await official statements regarding the future of visa issuance between the U.S. and Cuba, and the impact of these closures on immigrants and visitors worldwide.